Football features

Subterms

    More stories

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea signing Sarr supports poverty-stricken hometown in Nice with charity work and has a street park named after him

      by

      NOT many make something of their lives outside Les Moulins, a rough suburb to avoid in the picturesque city of Nice.
      But Malang Sarr is an example that anything is possible.

      8

      Chelsea signing Malang Sarr comes from an impoverished suburb of NiceCredit: AFP or licensors

      8

      A local hero, Sarr has a street park named after him in Les MoulinsCredit: Twitter / @ognice
      The highly coveted 21-year-old defender has hit the big time with a move to the Premier League.
      Joining Frank Lampard’s Chelsea on a free transfer after his contract expired, Sarr has signed a five-year deal with the Blues and is expected to be sent out on loan to gain valuable game time.
      It’s a transfer that he could only have dreamed of growing up on an estate in a disadvantaged neighbourhood in the French Riviera.
      However, despite his rapid rise through the ranks at Nice – Sarr has never forgotten his roots.

      DOING HIS BIT FOR CHARITY
      Sarr understands what he achieved was against the norm for kids from Les Moulins.
      That’s why he became an ambassador for the Adam Association.
      Formed in 1977, the charity works with children and young adults from the poor area and gives them opportunities they may not get.
      Educational support for kids is high on their agenda, as well as social and professional integration for young adults.

      Sarr turned to the Adam Association himself, when it came to needing help with his school work, so he understands exactly what they represent.

      8

      Sarr is a role model for the people of Les Moulins to aspire to beCredit: Twitter / @ognice

      8

      When Sarr was a boy he relied on local charity Adam Association to help him with his studiesCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      At the turn of the year, Sarr made an appearance at one of their meetings to hand out certificates for 23 graduates of a security training course.
      He told his audience: “Knowing that we all come from Les Moulins and seek to follow the path of those who have achieved great things in the neighbourhood is the only thing you should have in mind.
      “You should not put up any barriers because luck is made, in sport and in all other professions.”
      IN HIS HONOUR
      Last year, Sarr’s remarkable rise was recognised in Les Moulins.
      At only 20, he was immortalised with his very own park named after him in the district.
      The street park features a mural of the local’s hero painted on a wall, while naturally there are goals for kids to practice with and aspire to be the ‘next Sarr’.
      Sarr understands he’s a role model for the people who have supported him and his epic ascension from Nice youth product to potential Premier League star.
      “To be able to give back to the neighbourhood, to give back to the city, all I could have is the least of things,” Sarr revealed.
      “It’s a neighbourhood where life is good, everyone is pleasant, where everyone loves each other and is generous.

      8

      Sarr’s street park features a mural of the new Chelsea star

      8

      Malang Sarr Street Park opened last yearCredit: Twitter / @ognice
      “I try to be the best person I can to give a good image and to set an example.”
      A BORN LEADER
      Sarr joined Nice when he was six, spending 12 years developing with the club’s academy.
      He made his debut in 2016 – scoring and becoming the second youngest goalscorer in Ligue 1 history in the process.
      And under Nice manager Patrick Vieira he became a mainstay of the first team, filling in at left-back as well as playing in central defence.

      8

      Patrick Vieira has called Sarr a leader among menCredit: Icon Sport – Getty

      8

      Chelsea have snapped Sarr up on a five-year dealCredit: Instagram / @fedepastorello

      The former Gunners legend also sees something of him in the talented Sarr.
      “He has the personality of a leader,” Vieira told Sport365 in 2019. “He answers simply and clearly.”
      Clearly, Sarr is a leader on and off the pitch.

      Chelsea confirm £50m Ben Chilwell transfer from Leicester City as he becomes Frank Lampard’s third addition to squad More

    • 275 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Arsenal starlet Mark McGuinness has been promoted by Arteta to the first team and scored in the 4-1 defeat of MK Dons

      by

      THEY’RE shopping for central defenders, but the answer to Arsenal’s problems might be closer to home than they think.
      Back in April, highly-rated centre back Mark McGuinness, 19, signed professional terms with the club under the watchful gaze of former Gunners skipper Per Mertesacker.

      5

      Towering Arsenal youth defender Mark McGuinness has a big future in the gameCredit: Getty – Contributor

      In the months since, the 6ft 4in Republic of Ireland Under-19 international has been training with Mikel Arteta’s first team.
      This week, McGuinness announced himself with a thumping header in the 4-1 preseason friendly win over MK Dons.
      And if he continues to develop, he could save the Spanish boss a fortune in transfer fees.
      ROSE THROUGH THE RANKS
      London-born McGuinness has been with Arsenal since he was 10.

      He progressed through the youth teams to help Arsenal’s U18 team win the southern title in 2019 – impressing with his ability to read the game.
      Alongside Harry Clarke, he formed a formidable pairing in defence where the Gunners had previously struggled at that age group.
      The centre-back was rewarded for his fine form with a promotion to the U23s, where it is likely he will be partnering the recent surprise signing from Tottenham, Jonathan Dinzeyi.
      Similar in mould to Mertesacker, McGuinness is comfortable in possession and a threat from set-pieces.

      And he’s translated his form to the international stage.

      5

      McGuinness has risen through the ranks and is now training with the first teamCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      5

      Standing at 6ft 4in McGuinness is a fine passer of the ballCredit: Instagram markmcguinness5
      EURO SUCCESS
      2019 was a massively successful year for McGuinness.
      Not only was he a standout performer for the Gunners’ youth sides, he also starred for the Republic of Ireland’s U19 team at the 2019 European Championships.
      Unlucky to miss out on a place in the team of the tournament, McGuinness was a wall alongside Newcastle United’s Oisin McEntee.
      He helped the Irish reach the semi-finals, where they lost to Portugal.
      There was no doubt his stock rose further with his displays on the international scene.
      GOALSCORER
      A relative unknown to Arsenal fans, McGuinness appeared in Arteta’s first team in a preseason friendly against MK Dons this week – their only game before they face Liverpool in the Charity Shield on Saturday.
      Coming on as a second half substitute, he marshalled the defence and kept a clean sheet for the time he was on the pitch.

      5

      McGuinness celebrates finding the net against MK DonsCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      5

      The future looks bright for McGuinness at ArsenalCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      Better still, he felt the ecstasy of scoring – netting a thumping header and the third goal in a 4-1 win.
      With Zech Medley out on loan, McGuinness could find himself knocking on the first team door more often.
      And he may just cure Arsenal’s centre half blues.

      Rob Holding scores diving header own-goal for Arsenal against MK Dons More

    • 213 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Inside Lionel Messi’s amazing Barcelona lifestyle with a modern £5.5m mansion, £26m hotel and stunning car collection

      by

      THE unthinkable could be about to happen.
      Dismayed by life at Barcelona, Lionel Messi’s days at the Camp Nou appear to be numbered.

      26

      Messi has built an incredible lifestyle in Barcelona
      The Argentinian ace, 33, has handed in a transfer request and wants to leave the La Liga giants, after spending his entire career with the Catalans.
      Both Manchester clubs and PSG are watching with interest, and the forward has reportedly contacted former mentor Pep Guardiola asking to join him in the Premier League.
      But what will Messi be leaving behind? Here’s a glimpse into his amazing life in Catalonia.
      HIS HOME
      Boasting sea views and being in a no-fly zone, Messi’s abode – valued at £5.5milion – in Barcelona offers a tranquil experience.

      Located in the exclusive suburb of Castelldefels, it’s the perfect spot for the six-time Ballon d’Or winner to reside.
      And he bought himself privacy by splashing out on his neighbour’s home, according to team-mate Ivan Rakitic.
      Just 12 miles away from the Camp Nou, Messi’s home has a small football pitch, a swimming pool, an indoor gym and a playground for his three children.
      There’s also the incredible sight of the Balearic Sea to wake up to every day – you won’t get that in Manchester, Paris or London.

      Luiz Suarez and Philippe Coutinho live nearby, should a team debriefing be needed.

      26

      The Messis live in a stunning mansion in the exclusive suburb of CastelldefelsCredit: Instagram @antoroccuzzo88

      26

      The home boasts a stunning and spacious loungeCredit: Instagram @antoroccuzzo88

      26

      Messi has a room dedicated to a collection of shirts in his home

      26

      Football is always on the TV and the family can keep warm by the fireCredit: Instagram @antoroccuzzo88

      26

      Messi often plays football in his garden with his Dogue de Bordeaux called HulkCredit: Instagram @leomessi

      26

      The Messi family regularly congregate in the kitchenCredit: Instagram @leomessi

      26

      Family comes first for MessiCredit: Instagram @antoroccuzzo88
      HOTEL
      With tourism being a huge trade in Barcelona, Messi has invested his money shrewdly.
      Like his footballing rival Cristiano Ronaldo, he has become a hotelier and bought a £26million hotel in the coastal town of Sitges – some 26 miles from the city.
      The four-star Hotel MiM Sitges is just 100m from the sea, has 77 bedrooms, including five junior suites and one suite, and costs around £105-per-night during high season to stay in a standard room.
      On top of that, there’s the rooftop Sky Bar that boasts panoramic views of the town and Mediterranean Sea, as well as a pool.
      If you’re looking unwind even further, there’s a top-of-the-range spa that features a sauna, Turkish bath, sensory showers, a recreational pool, a cold plunge tub and a saltwater pool.

      26

      Messi owns the Hotel MiM Sitges

      26

      Sitges is a stunning coastal town just 26 miles from the city

      26

      The hotel cost Messi around £26millionCARS
      With a reported wealth of £310million, Messi could probably afford to send his car collection over with him wherever he goes.
      The pick of his motors, said to be worth around £3million, is a £1.5million Pagani Zonda.
      He also has a penchant for Maserati, with a £100,000 GranTurismo S and a GranTurismo MC Stradale in his garage.
      Messi has also been seen driving a Ferrari F43 Spider worth £173,000.
      Although with Barcelona’s deal with Audi ending last year, there were no more freebies from the German car giants.

      26

      Messi boasts a car collection reportedly worth £3millionCredit: Getty – Contributor

      26

      A rare Pagani Zonda worth £1.5million is the jewel of his car collectionCredit: Handout

      26

      26

      Messi seen behind the wheel of a Range RoverCredit: Getty – Contributor

      26

      Messi loves Maseratis and has two different GranTurismosCredit: Xposure

      26

      Barcelona’s sponsorship deal with Audi has since expiredCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      THE TRAINING GROUND
      Every day Messi hones his skills at the state-of-the-art Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper.
      Since 2009, Barcelona have made this their training ground. It also acts as a multi-sport pavilion for the other sports teams at the club, including basketball, futsal, and handball.
      After training, Messi and Co can use the gym, sauna, and a full-sized pool – all aiding their recuperation.
      Costing roughly around £65million, there are also living quarters where future Barcelona prospects border.
      It was named in honour of Joan Gamper, the founder of the Spanish club.

      26

      Messi trains at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan GamperCredit: FC Barcelona

      26

      The Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper boasts state-of-the-art facilitiesCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      26

      The facility boasts several training pitchesCredit: FC Barcelona

      26

      Barcelona’s professional basketball team is also based hereCredit: FC Barcelona

      26

      Barcelona’s stars are put through their pacesCredit: Rex Features
      LOVE OF HIS LIFE
      Barcelona shares a special place in the heart of Messi and his wife Antonella Roccuzzo.
      Although they were childhood friends in Rosario, Argentina, Messi and Roccuzzo’s love blossomed in the Spanish city in 2009.
      They’ve set up camp, not only with a beautiful home and life, but three sons too – Thiago, Mateo and Ciro all Spanish-born.

      There’s no doubt the pair would return to Argentina.
      After all, they shared their nuptials in their homeland in Rosario in a glitzy ceremony attended by Barcelona legends Xavi Hernandez, Carles Puyol and Samuel Eto’o.
      Would you turn your back on this lifestyle for a rainy day at Stoke?

      26

      Antonella Roccuzzo is Messi’s love of his lifeCredit: Instagram, @antoroccuzzo88

      26

      The stunning Wag was a childhood friend of Messi’s from RosarioCredit: Splash News

      26

      The Messi family have settled in SpainCredit: Instagram @antonelaroccuzzo

      26

      Will the Messi family move from Barcelona?Credit: Splash News More

    • 225 Shares119 Views

      in Soccer

      Inside Messi, Suarez and Fabregas’ £40,000-a-week summer holiday yacht that has waverunner, two kayaks & VIP state room

      by

      WITH an astonishing wealth behind them – it’s no wonder Lionel Messi, Cesc Fabregas and Luis Suarez can live the high-life.
      The footballing trio played together at Barcelona with Fabregas the first to go before seemingly imminent exits for the strike duo, and they rekindled their friendship with a luxury holiday in Formentera, Spain, last summer.

      14

      Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Cesc Fabregas rented this stunning yacht in Formentera last summer

      14

      Suarez and Messi spent time on board the luxury Seven C yacht while in the Mediterranean with their WagsCredit: Splash News
      And while they were on the Balearic Islands, they’ve were seen having fun onboard a private yacht with their stunning Wags.
      Gorgeous Antonella Roccuzzo, Daniella Semaan, and Sofia Balbi have all joined their partners in tow for what looks like a dream holiday.
      But forget the bikini-clad babes, it’s their Seven C charter boat that’s the real head-turner.
      BOAT SPEC
      Measuring nearly 92ft long, it was first built in 2003 before having a refit in 2011.

      Boasting luxury interiors throughout, the vessel sleeps ten guests in four rooms, including a master suite, a VIP stateroom and two twin cabins.
      Her sizeable deck area offers plenty of room for sunbathing and relaxing, while there’s an outdoor bar to cater for guest’s thirsts.
      Seven C’s impressive leisure and entertainment features, which mean she stands out from the crowd, will also keep Messi and Co busy.

      14

      Seven C would’ve cost Messi, Suarez and Fabregas £40k-per-week

      14

      Ten guests can sleep in the four cabins

      14

      You can live like a king in the luxurious master bedroom

      14

      All rooms are air-conditioned so guests are always in comfort

      14

      No expense is spared with the luxurious interiors onboard the Seven C
      Toys onboard include a waverunner, which Suarez was pictured taking advantage of, a couple of kayaks, as well as a paddleboard.

      Inside, every room is perfectly air-conditioned – if you need to cool down after a day in the sun.
      Performance-wise, the Seven C is capable of hitting a top speed of 22 knots, but has a cruising speed of 18 knots.
      All of this, of course, doesn’t come cheap.
      According to Yacht Charter Fleet, the Seven C is available to hire for around £40k-per-week.
      That’s next to nothing for these millionaire footballers, who regularly love to take holidays together.

      14

      Suarez took advantage of a waverunner on board the Seven CCredit: Splash News

      14

      Messi and Co can enjoy a lunch on the sun deck in the ultimate luxury

      14

      Wags Antonella Roccuzzo, Daniella Semaan, and Sofia Balbi  enjoyed the delights of the Seven CCredit: Splash News

      14

      Suarez and Sofia Balbi look cosy on board the Seven CCredit: Instagram @luissuarez9
      NOT BEEN PLAIN SAILING FOR MESSI
      However, Messi’s break away in the Mediterranean wasn’t completely relaxing.
      The Argentinian superstar had to be escorted away from an Ibiza party after a man allegedly tried to fight him.
      It remains a mystery what prompted the incident or who was involved.
      There is no suggestion the Barcelona ace did anything wrong.

      And snaps showing their Wags and kids, on sand, sea and yacht, suggest their families are just as comfortable together too.
      Before he headed to Spain to hang out with his pals, Messi had been relaxing on the Caribbean island of Antigua and Barbuda.
      Fast forward 12 months and the strike duo may be following Fabregas’ footsteps and heading out the exit door – with Suarez deemed surplus to requirement and Messi requesting a transfer.

      14

      Barcelona team-mates Messi and Suarez regularly go on holidays togetherCredit: Splash News

      14

      Fabregas used to be team-mates with Messi and Suarez before he left BarcelonaCredit: Splash News

      14

      Messi has yet to return to pre-season training for Barcelona, and was later seen in Antigua and Barbuda with his familyCredit: Splash News

      Lionel Messi escorted away from Ibiza party by security after man ‘tries to fight’ with Barcelona star More

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Neymar crumbled when PSG needed him against Bayern Munich, and when it mattered most his game went to pieces

      by

      AFTER Paris Saint Germain had lost to Bayern Munich in Sunday’s Champions League final, Neymar went to social media to make the point that the team had given its all and that losing was a part of sport.
      It was a classic example of one of the defining features of social media – that what you represent is not necessarily what you are.

      5

      Neymar was reduced to tears after PSG’s loss to Bayern Munich in the Champions League finalCredit: EPA
      Because the Neymar we had all seen on the Lisbon pitch did not appear to behave at all as if he thought that losing was a part of sport.
      He greeted defeat with a river of tears, and had to be coaxed out of his seat to join his team-mates and collect his medal.
      True, those in sport can never be happy to lose. But the real problem here was not how Neymar behaved after the final whistle had blown – it was the way that the prospect of defeat had a negative effect on his performance during the game.
      There have been many times when Neymar has been criticised unjustly.

      His petulant excesses mean that many are reluctant to praise him, and quick to blame him for things that are not his fault.
      It is unfair to pin Brazil’s disastrous 2014 World Cup on his slender shoulders – he was injured in the quarter finals.
      And his displays in Russia two years ago were pretty good bearing in mind that he was making his way back from an extended injury absence.
      And before this season he had been forced out of almost all the knock out games that PSG had played in the Champions League over the past two years.

      There is also clearly much more to him than the appearance – that he can often give on the field – of being a spoiled eternal adolescent. He is usually popular with his team-mates.
      But too much of that adolescent remains – and that, for his many fans, is the most disappointing lesson of the 2020 Champions League final.

      5

      When PSG needed him most Neymar crumbled under the pressureCredit: Manu Fernandez

      5

      Neymar failed to lift his PSG team-mates when they went 1-0 downCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      It is undeniable that he is under enormous pressure. Brazil have many excellent players.
      But Neymar is the stand out talent, the man expected to live up to the legacy of Pele and Garrincha.
      And when he left Barcelona, moving out of the shadow of Lionel Messi, he was making a conscious choice to accept the pressures of carrying PSG to greatness.
      On Sunday it all looked too much. Not because he played badly. He did some fine things in the first half. His acceleration and balance were both on show with the left footed shot that was well blocked by Manuel Neuer.
      The problem was that once Bayern took the lead – at the moment that PSG most needed their star man to step up – he crumbled.
      The real test of a team, and of a player, is the response to going behind. Neymar failed this one badly.
      For a 20 minute spell after the goal, he could do nothing right. His every touch was an error.
      All players go through bad spells. They can get themselves back in rhythm by keeping it simple, retaining possession and rediscovering their touch.
      Neymar seemed unable to do this. He was so emotionally affected by the proximity of defeat that, when it mattered most, his game went to pieces.
      In competitive matches for Brazil Neymar has only been on the losing side twice – not counting a penalty shoot out defeat back in 2011.

      5

      Neymar seemed to lose his touch and belief in the second half Credit: EPA

      5

      Neymar was left ruing what could’ve been at the final whistleCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      There was the quarter final loss to Belgium in Russia 2018, which he confessed was a huge blow.
      And there was a 1-0 defeat to Colombia in the Copa America of 2015, when he was superbly marked by Carlos Sanchez – and became so frustrated that he lashed out at the referee after the game and picked up a long suspension.

      He has not been prepared to lose – a fault not just in him but in those who have developed him. And until he can cope better with the prospect of defeat, the great triumphs will be much more difficult to achieve.
      Going into Sunday’s big game, many in Brazil were trusting that their big star was now ‘Ney Adult.’
      He may be closer to 29 than 28, but under the harsh spotlight of the global glare, Neymar showed that there is still work to be done on his emotional development for that tag to be true.

      Distraught Neymar has to be persuaded to receive runners-up medal as Ferdinand slams PSG star for lack of respect More

    • 275 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Leeds United star Kalvin Phillips was told to forget a career in football by school, but now has been picked for England

      by

      IT’S been a remarkable year for Leeds United midfield lynchpin Kalvin Phillips.
      The 24-year-old, nicknamed the ‘Yorkshire Pirlo’, was instrumental in leading Marcelo Bielsa’s side to promotion, following a 16-year absence from the Premier League.

      8

      Leeds United midfield lynchpin Kalvin Phillips has been called-up to the England squadCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      8

      Phillips was instrumental in ending Leeds United’s 16-year Premier League exileCredit: Reuters
      Better still, Gareth Southgate has rewarded Phillips for his fine form with his first ever call-up to the England squad for the Nations League games against Iceland and Denmark – just weeks after he was contacted to play international football for Jamaica.
      However, when he was a kid his former teachers believed he should forget about football and concentrate on his education.
      Phillips was a late-bloomer, and didn’t join the Leeds academy at Thorp Arch until he was 14.
      Before that he was starring at Wortley Juniors, and then Farsley for a season until Leeds scouts spotted his potential.

      However, his Sliding Doors moment came when his mother wrote to his school asking if her son could be excused from class.
      The school’s response wasn’t so positive.
      “My mum got a letter from school,” he recalled to the Yorkshire Evening Post.
      “It said they hoped I realised that not many people make it as a professional footballer.

      “There was me and a friend, in the same age group, and they were threatening not to let us go.
      “But they did and when I look back now I think…”
      LEEDS IN HIS BLOOD

      8

      Phillips’s mum was told by his secondary school to forget a career in footballCredit: Instagram / @kalvinphillips

      8

      Phillips, pictured with his late grandfather, grew up Leeds mad in Armley, near Elland RoadCredit: Instagram / @kalvinphillips
      Phillips grew up in Armley, a district west of Leeds – with the club very much in his family’s blood.
      A triplet, he was raised by his mother in a large family. But sadness hit the Phillips clan hard when he lost one of his sisters to illness at a young age.

      He took to football, playing in the streets with his brother until it got dark and idolised Alan Smith – the last Leeds player to play for the Three Lions.

      “I remember getting my first Leeds shirt, me and my brother.

      “It was the yellow one with Strongbow on the front. I had Alan Smith on the back.
      “We’d play outside whenever we got the chance, from 10 in the morning until six at night when my mum shouted us in for tea.
      “You’re just a kid and you enjoy running about. I never got tired.”

      SCOUTED AT 14
      Leeds picked up Phillips when he was midway through secondary school.
      It was by sheer fluke. He was there to watch his mates play in a tournament, ended up filling in because of lack of numbers, and caught the eye of Walter ‘Sonny’ Sweeney – a legend of Don Revie’s 1960s Leeds side.

      8

      At 14 Phillips, flanked by mum, left, and grandma, right, was scouted by LeedsCredit: Instagram / @kalvinphillips

      8

      In Leeds’ youth teams Phillips excelled at the Thorp Arch academyCredit: Instagram / @kalvinphillips

      “I was at Wortley Juniors until I was about 12 and then left for a season at Farsley,” he said.

      “I’d gone to watch Wortley play in their home tournament but they didn’t have enough players so I played for them. I got scouted by a guy called Sonny Sweeney and went to Leeds City Boys.

      “After that, he came and watched me again and got me on a six-week trial at Leeds. It all went from there.”
      LEEDS’ GAIN WAS HUDDERSFIELD’S LOSS
      It could’ve been a completely different Yorkshire club that Phillips might’ve made his name at.
      Before Sweeney spotted his talents, he trialled with Huddersfield Town and they must be kicking themselves now that it didn’t work out with the Terriers.
      “As soon as I went there, I thought ‘I don’t like it. It’s not for me’,” he said.
      “I was growing up around Leeds and I idolised Leeds. I went to Huddersfield and thought it was a good chance but I got there and felt like I didn’t really fancy it.
      “A couple of weeks later I went to Leeds and I haven’t looked back.”
      GLAMOUR JOB

      8

      Tough Phillips is renowned for his no-nonsense approach to the gameCredit: Rex Features

      8

      Phillips is thankful he was a late bloomer because he believes it made him a better playerCredit: PA:Empics Sport
      Phillips is aware he is one of the lucky ones and paid fantastic money to do a job he loves.
      He has a special bond with his twin sister, who teases him about his easy life. She works in the prison service in London.
      “She tells me that every time she sees me,” he joked.
      “But she’s proud of me as much as I’m proud of her. I don’t think she realises how proud of her I am.”
      Phillips holds no grudges when it comes to having made it late.
      In fact, the tough-tackler believes it made him the player he is today.
      “I knew I’d joined late but in a way it was better because I got to enjoy my football more when I was younger,” he said.
      “There wasn’t as much pressure. Me coming here late probably made me a better player.”

      Leeds making shock £10m move for Rangers star Ryan Kent with Marcelo Bielsa huge fan of ex-Liverpool winger More

    • 213 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea transfer target Thiago Silva almost died from tuberculosis aged 21 and his wife saved his career

      by

      Thiago Silva became one of the best defenders of his generation, but over a decade ago the Brazilian was weeks away from death after catching tuberculosis.
      The PSG centre back, who is wanted by Chelsea to sure up the West Londoner’s defence, was diagnosed with the bacterial infection while at Dynamo Moscow in 2005.

      9

      Thiago Silva has been targeted by Premier League giants ChelseaCredit: Handout – Getty

      9

      In 2005 while playing for Dynamo Moscow Silva was diagnosed with tuberculosisCredit: Dynamo Moscow
      At just 21 years old, Silva was hospitalised for six months while Russian doctors treated him for the condition he contracted six months before the illness was detected.
      The tuberculosis was so advanced, docs even considered removing part of his lungs to ensure his survival.
      But his mother, Angela, and wife, Isabelle stepped in advising against surgery that would’ve put pay to Silva’s football dreams before it had even started.
      “That would have ended my career, I needed guardian angels to take me away,” Silva told AP.

      DEFENSIVE DYNAMO
      Silva, now, 35, was signed by Dynamo from Porto in January, 2005 for a fee of around £3.5m.
      Despite not playing a single game for the Portuguese giants, other than a smattering of matches in the reserves in the second division, Dynamo took a punt on the unknown entity.
      The Russian club’s President, Alexei Fedorychev had big plans for Dynamo that year, bringing in seven players from Portugal that January.
      He even appointed experienced Brazilian manager Ivo Wortmann to ensure the language barrier wasn’t a problem for the new signings and his team could challenge for the Premier League.

      But club doctors were surprised that Silva was getting tired so quickly.

      9

      Silva goes toe-to-toe with Robert Lewandowski in the recent Champions League finalCredit: Manu Fernandez
      They also were shocked that most of their new recruits were bought without proper medical checks.
      Silva became very ill, suffering with symptoms including a high temperature, coughing fits and severe sweating.
      Clearly it wasn’t a case of the flu, he was sent to hospital where doctors conducted a series of tests to determine what was wrong.
      ‘TWO WEEKS FROM DEATH’
      They were stunned to learn he was suffering from tuberculosis, and had been for six months prior to their discovery.
      Simply put, doctors told him he was two weeks away from death and was extremely lucky the disease was caught when it was.
      “In 2005 I was sent out on loan to Dynamo Moscow, but the city was horrible, I was cold and got ill,” he told Gazzetta dello Sport magazine Sport Week back in 2011.
      “I was in hospital for six months. I was 10kg overweight and, despite everyone else in the hospital being so skinny and not wanting to eat, I was always hungry.

      9

      Doctors said Silva was two weeks away from death if he remained untreatedCredit: AFP or licensors
      “My mother said I didn’t look ill, but I couldn’t move.
      “The doctors would tell me to get up and go for a walk, but I couldn’t do it. This disease is also contagious, so I was put in isolation, only able to play computer games and go on the internet.
      “Every now and then a doctor would come in and give me an injection, three or four times a day, plus 10-15 pills.
      “I eventually found out that I’d had tuberculosis for six months. The doctors said if another two weeks had passed, I might not have been able to recover.
      “I almost died. This is why, whenever I play, I think back to those moments in Russia.”
      THREAT TO HIS CAREER
      During his treatment, medical staff advised the central defender he needed to have a part of his right lung cut out to survive the ordeal.
      Effectively, that would’ve meant he would have to quit football.

      9

      Thiago Silva’s wife Isabelle went against doctors’ advice of surgery to remove some of his lungCredit: Instagram @thiagosilva_33

      9

      Brazilian star Thiago Silva’s mum Angela convinced her son to carry on playingCredit: Bruno Henrique/ Divulgação
      “I told them no one would open my husband up and end his dream,” wife Isabelle told AP.
      “I am not a doctor, but no one believed he should go through surgery.
      “To see him wearing the Brazil shirt is a victory for us all, especially those that know him from those days.”
      During that dark time, Silva thought about retiring, despite being given a clean bill of health. It was the second time in his life he considered quitting the game.
      “I had thought of quitting football altogether,” he told Gazzetta dello Sport magazine Sport Week.
      “There was another occasion when I went to Flamengo for a trial and after two sessions they said I could go, as I was no better than any of the players they already had.
      “I told my mother I didn’t want to play football anymore, as nobody wanted me.
      “However, she said in that case I’d have to go work for my brother, so I immediately changed my mind and looked for another club!”
      SECOND COMING
      Silva’s adventure/nightmare in Russia ended in 2006 when he returned back to his homeland with Fluminense.

      9

      Ivo Wortmann gave Thiago Silva a second chance at FluminenseCredit: Coritiba

      9

      At Fluminense, Thiago Silva managed to rebuild his careerCredit: AFP – Getty

      9

      Thiago Silva earned a move to AC Milan in 2009 and has since become one of the world’s best defendersCredit: Getty – Contributor
      His redemption came from a familiar face too. Wortmann, a man responsible for bringing him to Dynamo in the first place, had moved back to Brazil too.

      Believing in Silva’s talent, he told Fluminense he’d be their coach if they bought his protege too.
      They did, and the rest, as they say, is history. Silva showed his promise, earning moves to AC Milan and then PSG.
      Chelsea could be next for this courageous man and footballer.

      talkSPORT set out minimum expectations for Chelsea next season amid busy transfer window More

    • 213 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Footballers’ yachts: Ronaldo, Pochettino, Alli and more have hired holiday boats, but which was the most expensive?

      by

      DURING lockdown, a host of football stars would have been dreaming of being able to get back to their glamorous, filthy-rich holidays.
      Some even go as far as renting luxury yachts on their trips abroad, as they unwind in the sunshine.

      20

      Ronaldo is just one of many footballers who enjoy the luxuries of yachtsCredit: The Mega Agency
      Last summer we saw the likes of ex-Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino and Cristiano Ronaldo show off their budgie smugglers as they relaxed on board boats worth millions.
      But how much did they spend hiring them? Let SunSport tell you below.
      JAN OBLAK
      Angels and Demons, £23k-per-week
      The Atletico Madrid keeper deserved a decent break – starring for the La Liga side once again last term.
      He went to Ibiza with his missus, soaking up the sun on board the Angels and Demons yacht.

      The 73.03ft /22.26m Pershing 76 was built in 2010, and sleeps up to 6 guests in 3 rooms, including a master suite, 1 VIP stateroom and 1 twin cabin.
      Each room is fully air-conditioned, and there’s Wi-Fi throughout the boat that has a cruising speed of 32 knots, and a maximum speed of 45 knots.

      Cristiano Ronaldo larks about on a waterslide on board the Africa I yacht as he plunges into the Mediterranean Sea

      20

      Atletico Madrid star Jan Oblak enjoyed Ibiza by boatCredit: Splash News

      20

      Their Angels and Demons boat can sleep 6 peopleCredit: Splash News
      MANUEL NEUER AND MARIO GOTZE
      Baloo 1 Pershing 74X, £35K-per-week
      When German stars Neuer and Gotze whisked their stunning Wags Ann Kathrin Brommel and Nina Weiss for a getaway, they made sure they treated them to a luxury yacht.
      They also chose to go to the Balearic Islands and hired the mega Baloo 1 that can sleep six in its three cabins.

      The yacht features sun loungers to top up your tan, an outdoor dining area, as well as a full scale dining room inside.
      It has a cruising speed of 35 knots, and is capable of hitting 43 knots at a push.
      In terms of perks, there’s no water toys on board, but you do have use of their snorkeling equipment.

      20

      Mario Gotze and wife Ann Kathrin Brommel hired a boat with Manuel Neuer and his missus Nina Weiss last summerCredit: Splash News

      20

      German stars Neuer and Gotze could’ve paid around £35k for a week on board their yachtCredit: Splash News

      20

      Neuer and Weiss top up their tans on the sun deckCredit: Splash News
      RAHEEM STERLING
      Golden Touch yacht, £24k-per-week
      The 2019 Football Writers’ Player of the Year treated himself to a trip to Miami last year, before Man City kicked off the defence of their Premier League title.
      And he was spotted on board a luxury yacht called the Golden Touch, which is normally docked in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
      Inside the vessel are four cabins, including one VIP cabin that boasts its own ensuite bathroom.
      The indoor dining area has plush sofas, while a dining table will seat six people.
      It is the most old-fashioned of all the yachts on offer, originally built in 1992 before having a refurb in 2014, but it’s still very luxurious.

      20

      Raheem Sterling hired the Golden Touch when he was in FloridaCredit: Splash News
      KYLE WALKER
      Cala Di Luna, £30k-per-week
      Another Man City ace, Walker, was spied on board the Cala Di Luna in Formentera with missus, Annie Kilner.
      In May 2019 the Wag dumped the England defender after he was caught cheating.
      It has been a rollercoaster ride since with Walker having a lovechild with secret lover Lauryn Goodman.
      He recently spunked £250,000 on a private jet to take Kilner on holiday.
      And last summer, Walker decided to splash the cash on this delightful motor yacht launched by Sunseeker in 2010.
      The Cala Di Luna sleeps 8 guests in four cabins and has a crew of two to look after you.
      A proper family yacht, there are three exterior lounging areas ideal for sunbathing.
      The yacht is also loaded with toys, including three Seadoo sea scooters, water skis, paddle surfboards and snorkeling equipment.

      20

      Kyle Walker spent £30k-per-week on a boat in the Balearic IslandCredit: Splash News
      DALEY BLIND
      Wajer 38, £20K-per-week
      The Ajax star had a brilliant season with the Dutch club, winning a domestic double and reaching a Champions League semi-final in 2019.
      So, a trip to the Amalfi Coast was just the ticket for the former Man Utd star and his gorgeous missus, Candy-Rae Fleur.
      The pair hired a Wajer 38, which can cost up to £20k-per-week or £2,500 for the day.
      It’s not as a big as yacht as others on the list, but still packs a punch.
      She can hit a top of 45 knots, should you need to get anywhere in a hurry.
      According to the brochure, the Wajer can take in 14 guests, however there are no cabins to sleep over.

      20

      Daley Blind had the smallest yacht on the listCredit: BackGrid
      KEVIN-PRINCE BOATENG
      Boom Shakalaka, £47k-per-week
      Wind your body, wiggle your belly like Boateng on this splendidly named super yacht.
      The former Portsmouth forward rented the Boom Shakalaka with his mates on holiday in Ibiza last summer.
      At 85.30ft it’s impressive in size, has four cabins and can accommodate eight guests.
      The yacht also features anchor stabilisers, which work at zero speed, increasing onboard comfort at anchor and on rough waters.
      And there’s loads of toys on board that kept Boateng and his pals busy, including wake boards, F5 Seabobs, paddleboards, snorkeling equipment, water-skis, and a kayak.

      20

      Kevin-Prince Boateng’s Boom Shaka Laka yacht had loads of boys toys for him and his mates to enjoyCredit: Splash News
      MAURICIO POCHETTINO
      Shaka Princess V 58, £20,600-per-week
      The former Spurs boss took wife Karina and their sons Sebastiano and Maurizio to Formentera, and no expense was spared.
      The family were seen enjoying the fruits of the Shaka Princess V 58, which can also be rented daily for around £3,000.
      Built in 2009, it has room for 11 passengers during the day, with six of those able to stay over.
      It’s not the fastest boat on our list, with a capability of hitting just 38 knots, but it’s packed with additional amenities.
      Maurizio, 19, turned action man, and was seen crushing the waves on its jet-ski.
      Meanwhile dad took advantage of the spacious sun deck with his missus to top up his tan in a fetching pair of Speedos.

      20

      Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino splashed the cash for him and his family on board a Shaka Princess V 58 yachtCredit: Splash News

      20

      Pochettino took advantage of the boys toys on board and enjoyed the jet skiCredit: Splash News
      HARRY MAGUIRE
      AB Yacht 58 Kanamo, £22,750-per-week
      When Man Utd star Maguire wanted a yacht last summer to enjoy with his mates, zoning out to top tunes was clearly a key part of his plans.
      Because the Kanamo is the ultimate party boat, complete with one of the best music systems around from Heaven Audio.
      Just 11 passengers are authorised to be on board at one time, and there are two comfortable cabins and two full bathrooms for guests to use.
      Fresh fruit and cava are given as courtesy on board a boat that can cost as much as £2,600 daily to hire.
      It’s also the fastest on our list, capable of reaching around 54 knots should you have a need for speed.
      It was certainly a more successful break than Maguire had this year after the United captain was arrested in Greece for allegedly fighting with an Albanian gangster.

      20

      Harry Maguire’s yacht was the party boat that boasted the best sound systemCredit: Instagram / @harrymaguire93
      DELE ALLI
      Delhia, £40k-per-week
      When you’re on £100k-per-week, and you’re trying to impress your gorgeous girlfriend who you’ve just won back, you’ll spend whatever you can to ensure she has a good time.
      Dele was spotted on board the stunning Delhia with the equally gorgeous Ruby Mae last summer in St Tropez, and they rented out this super yacht.
      Up to seven guests can stay in three rooms, including the master suite, and there’s even a poker table to hand should you fancy a game of cards.
      The rooms are fully equipped with satellite TV, and there’s tons of fun things to do on board.
      There’s wake boarding, water skis, snorkeling equipment and kayaking options to get the most out of your trip.

      20

      Dele Alli and Ruby Mae enjoyed a break in St Tropez on board the £40k-per-week DelhiaCredit: Splash News

      20

      Alli on Ruby Mae’s relationship is back on course after splitting brieflyCredit: The Mega Agency

      20

      Mae enjoyed bronzing her stunning body on board the sun deckCredit: Instagram / @rubymae3223
      CRISTIANO RONALDO
      Benetti Africa I, £180k-per-week
      Of course, the most expensive had to be Cristiano’s.
      CR7 went around the Greek islands and then the French Riviera onboard the Africa I, which is worth a whopping £15m.
      It’s 154.20 feet long, has a beam of 8.8 metres and can accommodate up to 12 guests in six cabins, including a master suite, four double cabins and a twin cabin.
      There’s also a stunning jacuzzi on the sun deck, as well as a fully-equipped gym.

      For those who love recreational activities, the Africa I has them in an abundance.
      There are two Seadoo RXP-X RS 300 Waverunners jet skis, one Seadoo 260 HP Waverunner jet ski, two F5S Seabobs, as well as a fun waterslide that Ronaldo was seen sliding down on his hols.
      The Africa I also has a cinema onboard, perfect for watching a late movie with the fam after a long day of sun.

      20

      Ronaldo’s Africa I yacht is the most expensive, costing a whopping £180k-per-weekCredit: The Mega Agency

      20

      The Africa I is fully-equipped with jet skis and has an onboard cinemaCredit: Splash News

      20

      The Africa I had a fun slide which Ronaldo and family enjoyedCredit: Refer to Caption

      20

      Ronaldo’s missus Georgina Rodriguez lounges on the sun deckCredit: The Mega Agency

      Cristiano Ronaldo plays table tennis with Sir Philip Green on his yacht More